Apple Ends 30% Fee for External Links

• Apple could soon be required to eliminate commissions for external payment methods
• This includes removing warning screens and allowing developers unrestricted use of external links
• The decision stems from a significant ruling in the ongoing Epic vs Apple legal battle

Another day brings another development in the Epic v Apple saga we assumed had concluded long ago. The iPhone maker now faces potential requirements to remove its contentious 30% commission on payments processed outside the App Store ecosystem.

What does this mean for consumers? Essentially, Apple has emerged as the clear loser in the original Epic v Apple case, which began when Tim Sweeney enabled direct in-app purchases through Epic Games for Fortnite, offering players substantial discounts.

While Apple previously needed to eliminate fees and restrictions on external linking in the EU, US courts had shown more favorable treatment toward the company's position.

The current ruling now prohibits Apple from: Charging fees on external purchases, restricting developer link placement or formatting, limiting saving comparisons through calls-to-action, excluding specific apps or developers, using intimidating warning screens that influence consumer choice, and requires neutral messaging when directing users to third-party sites.

Although Epic lost several preliminary battles, they've essentially won the broader conflict. Apple naturally plans to appeal the decision, but successfully overturning these judicial determinations appears unlikely.

With the Epic Games Store establishing presence on mobile platforms across the EU and Android in the US, the iOS App Store's dominance may gradually diminish over time.